08/26/21 - The Vital Role That 4-H Plays

Host and American Family Farmer, Doug Stephan www.eastleighfarm.com begins with news about the Billion Dollar fund now available for contract farmers. New weeds are becoming new problems. Did you know that 25% of farmers today are beginners? 440 acres is the average size of farms in America. Next, we meet Linda Horn, Interim Director, UMass Extension 4-H Youth Development Program. https://ag.umass.edu/mass4h She explains what 4-H is and how it is affiliated with the University system. She explains the traditional 4-H model, including animal science and agricultural programs, and how this has evolved and expanded into agriscience, robotics, and other areas while still focusing on agriculture. Linda also introduces us to two very bright 4-H members, Lilly Dias and Rachel Meacham. Finally, Farmer Doug opines about staying focused on the farm, and not being distracted.